The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has again postponed the docking of its ambitious Spadex mission. It was originally scheduled for January 7 and later moved to January 11; the dock had been delayed due to an unexpected satellite movement detected during the launch. In a post on X, ISRO stated, “While making a maneuver to reach 225 meters between satellites, the drift was found to be more than expected post non-visibility period. The planned docking for tomorrow is postponed. Satellites are safe.”
About the SpaDex Mission
Launched by Satish Dhawan Space Center PSLV-C60 rocket on December 30, 2024, Spadex constructs two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), each weighing about 220 kg. The satellites were placed into a 475-km circular orbit to test in-space docking technologies.
The mission aims to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of space docking —an important capability for India’s future space programs, which include the creation of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), a lunar sample return mission, and potential human exploration missions.
Significance of SpaDex
According to ISRO, the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDex) is a crucial step towards accurately identifying the assembly, docking, and unloading of the spacecraft. The success of this technology will lead to advances in satellite applications, space station applications, and interplanetary missions.
"SpaDex will serve as a milestone in advancing India’s capabilities in space docking, a critical technology for future space missions," ISRO explained.
The new docking schedule has not been announced yet, but ISRO has assured that the two satellites will remain safe and in stable condition.
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